Transform your backyard into a personal sanctuary. At Sweetgrass Pools, we craft the heart of your summer memories with artisanal precision.
Call (843) 714-8090
5-Star Rated
Lifetime Warranty
100% American Made
Custom Pool Builder in Florence, SC
There's something magical about summer that draws people to the water. The shimmering surface of a pool promises instant relief from the heat and a place where families and friends can gather, laugh, and unwind together. Whether it's kids playing Marco Polo, adults lounging with a cool drink, or neighbors coming together for a weekend barbecue, the pool quickly becomes the heart of summer memories. It's not just about swimming. It's about connection, relaxation, and creating moments that linger long after the sun goes down.
That's why so many homeowners dream of having their own custom pool. A professionally designed pool isn't just a backyard feature; it's a personal oasis, tailored to fit your lifestyle and aesthetic. Working with an expert ensures you get a pool that's as unique as your family, with every detail thoughtfully crafted for beauty, safety, and year-round enjoyment. If you have a home in South Carolina and are thinking about having a custom pool built, there's only one problem. Who do you choose to get the job done right? If you're like most homeowners, you're looking for a team of dedicated, creative craftsmen who can transform your backyard into a warm-weather sanctuary. That's where Sweetgrass Pools dives in to make your dreams come true.
- Exceeding Custom Pool Expectations from Initial Design to First Splash
- Custom Pool Builder in Florence, SC
- What Makes Sweetgrass Stand Out from Other Pool Building Companies in Florence, SC?
- Custom-Built Fiberglass and Gunite Pools
- Top 3 Features Your Pool Building Company in Florence, SC Can Add to Your Custom Pool
- Sweetgrass Pools: The Local Custom Pool Builder in Florence, SC You Can Trust
What Makes Sweetgrass Stand Out from Other Pool Building Companies in Florence, SC?
As the saying goes, the proof is in the pudding (or in our case, in the pools we build). Search Google for "custom pool builder near me," and you'll find our listing has 5-star ratings and exemplary reviews. We're proud to serve our clients with excellence and guidance, from the first time we speak to the time we leave your home after crafting your custom pool.
In fact, with years of high-level experience under our collective belts, we can safely say that our team is dedicated to bringing your dream pool to fruition. Unlike some custom pool contractors, we don't offer a wide range of services like pool maintenance or repairs. We focus exclusively on custom pool building, allowing our experts to focus on what matters most - creating a pool for your home that you'll use for years to come.
Our specialties include:
- Pool Design
- Pool Planning
- Custom Fiberglass Pools
- Custom Gunite Pools
- Establishing Foundations for Pools
- Plumbing for Custom Pools
- Electrical Work for Custom Pools
- Pool Filling and Testing
100% American-Made Custom Pools
When you trust pool building contractors in Florence, SC to create a pool for your home, you expect them to use quality raw materials during construction. When you choose Sweetgrass, you can rest assured that your new pool will be built from top-tier materials, chosen for their durability and beauty. At our advanced facility in the U.S., each pool is skillfully crafted by hand, ensuring exceptional attention to detail from start to finish.
Transforming Dreams into Reality
At Sweetgrass Pools, we believe that creating a pool is about crafting a personalized oasis that fits your way of life. Whether you dream of a lively backyard for family fun, a peaceful hideaway to unwind, or a stunning space to host friends, your vision is our foundation. Many pool companies offer cookie-cutter solutions, but we spend time getting to know your style and needs, transforming your ideas into a pool that feels like a natural extension of your home.
Family Owned & Locally Operated
Sweetgrass Pools is a local, family-run business led by a husband and wife who pour their hearts into every project. Turning backyard dreams into reality is our passion, and we're committed to delivering an exceptional pool experience from our first conversation to the day you take your first swim.
Lifetime Warranty on Our Custom Pools
At Sweetgrass Pools, we take great pride in building pools that stand the test of time. Your family will create countless memories, season after season, knowing your investment is protected by our lifetime structural in-ground warranty.
Our skilled team uses the latest planning technology, creative design expertise, and years of experience to turn your dream pool into a reality that's as practical as it is beautiful. Let us help you transform your backyard into a place where memories are made all year long.
Some of the biggest custom pool benefits that our clients enjoy include:
- A safe, comfortable setting in which to enjoy time with family and friends
- Exercise
- Stress Relief
- Ease and Convenience
- Proven Health Benefits
Custom-Built Fiberglass and Gunite Pools
As the premier custom pool builder in Florence, SC, we specialize in fiberglass and gunite pool construction and installation. We don't consider gunite to be better than fiberglass or vice versa. Instead, it's more about which type of pool best fits your lifestyle, budget, and overall needs. Unsure whether you need a custom concrete pool or fiberglass? Start thinking about how your pool is going to be used. Is it going to be your go-to tanning location? Are you going to host parties? Are you more focused on exercising and staying healthy?
Use this brief buyer's guide to help you make a decision:
- Who will keep your pool sparkling and swim-ready? If you plan to handle the upkeep yourself, how much time can you realistically set aside each week? If you'd rather leave it to the pros, what kind of annual budget fits your plans for easy living?
- What does your dream pool look like? Picture the size, shape, and special features that would make every swim unforgettable. Do you crave extra space for laps, or perhaps a unique design that stands out?
- How much outdoor living space do you envision around your pool? Think about the decking, lush landscaping, and relaxing areas that will turn your backyard into a true retreat.
- Who will be making a splash in your new pool? Will it be a haven for energetic kids, a paradise for pets, or a tranquil spot just for you and your guests?
- Can your pool building contractors offer peace of mind throughout the construction process? Look for a proven track record and a solid warranty so you can dive in with confidence, knowing your investment is well protected.
Now that you have a better idea of what type of custom pool to invest in, let's take a closer look at two of Sweetgrass Pools' specialties: custom fiberglass pools and custom gunite pools.
Custom Fiberglass Pools 101
Fiberglass pools arrive as ready-to-install shells, designed in our state-of-the-art facility for quick placement into your yard. Choosing fiberglass means selecting from a set range of shapes and styles, each crafted for efficiency and durability.
One of the biggest advantages of fiberglass pools is how quickly they can be installed. Each shell is carefully crafted in a high-tech facility and delivered straight to your doorstep, cutting down the time it takes to go from digging the hole to swimming your first lap. In many cases, you could relax in your new pool just days after it arrives. By comparison, concrete pools require more time and patience before you can dive in.
Custom Fiberglass Pool Size & Customization
Most fiberglass pools max out at 16 feet wide, 40 feet long, and 8.5 feet deep. So, if you're imagining a backyard oasis that's extra large or especially deep, you might want to consider other options. But if these dimensions fit your plans, fiberglass still offers plenty of ways to make your pool unique. You can personalize it with elegant tiles, vibrant lighting, and a spectrum of colorful finishes. With so many creative choices, you're bound to find a look that matches your vision.
Custom Fiberglass Pool Maintenance
Fiberglass pools are known for being refreshingly low-maintenance, making them a popular choice for busy homeowners. The surface is exceptionally smooth and tough, which means you'll spend less time scrubbing and worrying about stubborn algae or unsightly stains. Because the material itself stands up well to chemicals and everyday wear, you can count on your pool to look inviting year after year. For anyone dreaming of more swimming time and less work, fiberglass offers a hassle-free path to backyard enjoyment.
If you're thinking about buying a fiberglass pool for your backyard, your custom pool building company should provide you with a tailored construction timeline. At Sweetgrass Pools, those steps include:
Week 1
Excavation
Week 2
Delivery of Fiberglass Pool Shell
Week 3
Set Fiberglass Pool Shell
Week 4
Complete Plumbing & Electrical. Fill Your New Pool with Water
Week 5
Complete Pool Inspection. Pour Bond Beam Around Your New Pool.
Week 6
Complete Bond Beam if Needed.
Week 7
Start Waterline Tile & Travertine Coping
Week 8
Begin Travertine Decking, Broom-Finished Concrete, or Stamped and Stained Concrete
Week 9
Tie Up All Loose Ends. Your Decking is Completed, Your Pool is Cleaned, and Your Water is Chemically Balanced. Time to Dive In!
Custom Gunite Pools 101
Imagine an in-ground pool crafted specifically for your backyard, with every curve and contour shaped to your wishes. That's what you get with a gunite - or concrete - swimming pool. Bour pool building experts spray a mixture of sand and cement onto a sturdy steel frame, then add water right at the nozzle, creating a solid concrete basin that's built to last.
Custom Gunite Pool Size & Customization
Gunite pools are beloved for their strength and timeless appeal, but their real magic lies in flexibility. Unlike factory-molded shells, each gunite pool is custom-built on-site. You can dream big with the design, whether you want a classic rectangle, a freeform lagoon, or something entirely unique. When you choose gunite, you're opening the door to a pool that's as original as you are, tailored to fit your space and your lifestyle.
Custom Gunite Pool Maintenance
Gunite pools allow owners to truly customize their pool and pool experience. These pools are typically finished with plaster, which is typically porous. This makes custom concrete pools more susceptible to algae and chemical damage. Different finishes may combat these issues, but generally, a concrete pool requires more maintenance, like water rebalancing. Most gunite pool owners are fine with that tradeoff and actually enjoy the maintenance process as part of their monthly or quarterly routine.
If you're thinking about buying a concrete pool for your backyard, your custom pool builder in Florence, SC should provide you with a tailored construction timeline. At Sweetgrass Pools, those steps include:
Week 1
Excavation
Week 2
Set Rebar and Call for Grounding Inspections
Week 3
Shooting Gunite and Removing Wooden Forms
Week 4
Installation of Plumbing and Electrical. Waterline Coping Begins
Week 5
Waterline Tile is Completed. Your Final Electrical Inspection Takes Place Along with Final Decking. From There, We Apply Travertine Decking, Broom-Finished Concrete, or Stamped and Stained Concrete
Week 6
Tie Up All Loose Ends. Your Decking is Completed, Your Pool is Cleaned, and Your Water is Chemically Balanced. Time to Dive In!
Top 3 Features Your Pool Building Company in Florence, SC Can Add to Your Custom Pool
A custom pool opens the door to a world of possibilities, letting you shape your backyard retreat exactly how you imagine it. Picture the soothing sound of waterfalls, the glow of a fire pit at sunset, or a sun shelf perfect for lounging on lazy afternoons. With endless options like built-in seating, playful fountains, and elegant lighting, your pool can become a one-of-a-kind escape that fits your style and brings your vision to life.
100% American-Made Custom Pools
Water features instantly elevate any custom pool, adding both beauty and tranquility. Choose graceful fountains for a touch of elegance or opt for natural stone waterfalls to create your own private hideaway. Line your pool with playful jets or delicate fountains for subtle charm, or go bold with a show-stopping waterfall or a soaring fountain as your centerpiece. Every feature adds its own splash of personality.
Spa Features for Custom Pools
An in-ground spa turns your backyard into a personal retreat, which is perfect for unwinding after a swim. Whether you prefer a sleek, modern design or a spa nestled among natural stone, you can create a relaxing spot that suits your style.
Benches & Tanning Ledges for Custom Pools
Shallow zones let you unwind, soak up the sun, or ease into the water at your own pace. Add benches for built-in comfort, swim-outs for extra lounging, or a tanning ledge where you can kick back or just let the kids splash safely.
If you have another pool feature in mind, like an infinite edge or firepit, contact Sweetgrass Pools today. Let's talk about your dreams, your budget, and your custom pool needs.
Fiberglass Swimming Pool for Erin King
pools. In Ground Pool for Tara Ann Garrett
Fiberglass Swimming Pool for Michelle Moisa
pools. In Ground Pool for Doug Walters
Fiberglass Swimming Pool for Kenneth Calcutt
pools. In Ground Pool for Lisa Costas
Fiberglass Swimming Pool for Jim Voakes
pools. In Ground Pool for Clay Helms
Sweetgrass Pools: The Local Custom Pool Builder in Florence, SC You Can Trust
When you choose our custom pool company to help create an unforgettable backyard oasis, you're choosing a local, family-owned company that prioritizes quality and craftsmanship over cookie-cutter designs and subpar customer service.
We believe your pool should be as unique as you are. Every project is a fresh canvas, designed with your personal style and vision in mind, rather than taking a cookie-cutter approach. Our passion is crafting stunning pools and outdoor spaces that bring your dreams to life, while building lasting connections along the way.
Our experienced team partners with top-tier custom pool artisans who care about quality as much as you do. We're dedicated to exceptional craftsmanship, and our work is backed by a warranty you can trust. Let us transform your backyard into something extraordinary - one that exceeds your expectations from the first design to the final splash.
Latest News Near Me Florence, SC
Florence County, South Carolina Scam Alert: Sheriff’s Office Warns Residents About Phone, Text and Gift Card Scams
County Herald Weather Centerhttps://countryherald.com/news/florence-county-south-carolina-scam-alert-sheriffs-office-warns-residents-about-phone-text-and-gift-card-scams/
Florence County, SC – Authorities in Florence County are warning residents about a surge in scams targeting local citizens, with fraudsters allegedly posing as law enforcement officers and government agencies in an attempt to steal money.The Florence County Sheriff’s Office says the most common scam involves a phone call from someone claiming to be with the sheriff’s office who allegedly tells victims they have an outstanding arrest warrant, often for allegedly failing to report for jury duty. The ca...
Florence County, SC – Authorities in Florence County are warning residents about a surge in scams targeting local citizens, with fraudsters allegedly posing as law enforcement officers and government agencies in an attempt to steal money.
The Florence County Sheriff’s Office says the most common scam involves a phone call from someone claiming to be with the sheriff’s office who allegedly tells victims they have an outstanding arrest warrant, often for allegedly failing to report for jury duty. The caller then reportedly offers a way to allegedly avoid arrest by paying a supposed fine with a credit card or gift card.
According to the Florence County Sheriff’s Office, these calls are scams and residents should hang up immediately. Officials say scammers may manipulate caller ID to make it appear as though the call is coming from a local number or even the sheriff’s office itself. Some callers allegedly use local accents or falsely claim to be actual deputies.
Law enforcement stressed that legitimate agencies will never call residents to collect money or request payment information for warrants or court fines.
Authorities also warn about another scam in which a caller allegedly claims a family member is in jail, sometimes locally or even in another country, and urgently needs money wired for bond. Officials say scammers repeatedly rely on fear and urgency to pressure victims into sending money.
Text messages posing as the South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles have also been circulating. In those cases, scammers allegedly claim the recipient has unpaid traffic tickets and must pay immediately through a link that appears to be official or risk license or registration suspension.
According to the sheriff’s office, these messages are fraudulent and should be deleted without clicking any links.
Officials say additional scams have involved messages impersonating the Internal Revenue Service, Social Security Administration, or sweepstakes notifications.
Residents are urged to never provide personal or financial information over the phone or online to unknown individuals and to report suspected scams to local authorities.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.Follow us on Instagram & Facebook for more relevant news stories and SUPPORT LOCAL INDEPENDENT NEWS! Have a tip? Message us!
Cheapest gas stations in Florence, South Carolina
Stackerhttps://stacker.com/stories/south-carolina/florencesc/cheapest-gas-stations-florence-south-carolina
Anyone who drives a car understands the sting of having to fill up their tank and pulling into the gas station, only to discover that gas prices have skyrocketed. Paying extra for gas means you have less to spend on other things, which, over time, can really put a crimp in your budget.Cheap Insurance explored some of the reasons behind major changes in gas prices, and compiled a list of the cheapest gas stations in Florence, South Carolina using data from Gas Buddy.Gas prices fluctuate based on several factors, including the co...
Anyone who drives a car understands the sting of having to fill up their tank and pulling into the gas station, only to discover that gas prices have skyrocketed. Paying extra for gas means you have less to spend on other things, which, over time, can really put a crimp in your budget.
Cheap Insurance explored some of the reasons behind major changes in gas prices, and compiled a list of the cheapest gas stations in Florence, South Carolina using data from Gas Buddy.
Gas prices fluctuate based on several factors, including the cost of the key ingredient, crude oil, as well as the available supply and demand for gasoline. If the price of oil rises, a major refinery goes offline, or more drivers are hitting the road, for example, then the cost will increase.
In the first half of 2022, a unique confluence of events led to a surge in gas prices. The increased demand stemming from the COVID-19 pandemic, Russia's invasion of Ukraine, and a slowdown in oil production all contributed to a national all-time high of $4.93 per gallon on average in June 2022.
Seasons also affect gas prices. Demand tends to drop in winter, but the cost also falls because gas stations switch to a different blend of gasoline that's optimal for lower temperatures—and has cheaper ingredients.
Location also matters. The South and Midwest tend to have the lowest gas prices, while the West, including Hawai'i, has the highest. Californians, in particular, pay more for gas on average than any other state. That's because of its high state excise taxes; its isolation from the country's major pipelines, which causes supply issues; and its requirements that mandate a more environmentally friendly blend of gas that costs more to produce and adds to the price per gallon.
No matter where you live, read on to see if you can get a deal on gas near you.
#1. Exxon- Address: 2401 W Palmetto St, Florence, SC- Price: $2.45
#2. Sam's Club- Address: 200 Beltline Dr, SouthCarolina, SC- Price: $2.97
#3. Murphy USA- Address: 411 Pamplico Hwy, Florence, SC- Price: $2.99
#3. Murphy Express (tie)- Address: 111 N. Beltline Dr, Florence, SC- Price: $2.99
#3. Murphy USA (tie)- Address: 2010 S. Irby, Florence, SC- Price: $2.99
#3. Fast Lane (tie)- Address: 210 E National Cemetery Rd, Florence, SC- Price: $2.99
#3. Mobil (tie)- Address: 2024 W Lucas St, Florence, SC- Price: $2.99
#8. Exxon- Address: 2099 N Irby St, Florence, SC- Price: $3.01
#8. Exxon (tie)- Address: 2105 TV Rd, Florence, SC- Price: $3.01
#10. BP- Address: 400 PAMPLICO HWY, Florence, SC- Price: $3.04
Florence 1 Schools’ educator finalist for SC Teacher of the Year
Tonya Brownhttps://wpde.com/news/local/florence-1-schools-educator-finalist-for-state-teacher-of-the-year-royall-elementary-superintendent-mclaurin-elementary-south-carolina
(WPDE) — Florence One Schools’ special education teacher is a finalist for the South Carolina Teacher of the Year.Megan Johnson works as an Exceptional Education teacher at Royall Elementary School and on Thursday morning got quite the surprise.South Carolina State Superintendent of Education Ellen Weaver walked into Johnson’s classroom with a $10,000 check and told Johnson that she was up for the major award.Johnson was very emotional and extremely surprised as she gazed at all of the cameras, along wi...
(WPDE) — Florence One Schools’ special education teacher is a finalist for the South Carolina Teacher of the Year.
Megan Johnson works as an Exceptional Education teacher at Royall Elementary School and on Thursday morning got quite the surprise.
South Carolina State Superintendent of Education Ellen Weaver walked into Johnson’s classroom with a $10,000 check and told Johnson that she was up for the major award.
Johnson was very emotional and extremely surprised as she gazed at all of the cameras, along with Weaver, her team and district administrators in her classroom.
Johnson has been teaching for 19 years and said she does it because she truly loves educating students.
Johnson’s young daughter was in on the surprise and gave her mother a huge hug for being named a finalist.
Before Royall, she also worked at McLaurin Elementary School and Carver Elementary School.
“I am extremely proud of Mrs. Johnson and all that she has accomplished as a teacher,” said Royall Elementary Principal Chris Rogers. “I have worked with her for many years, and I can honestly say her students always come first. She truly loves and cares for her students while giving each of them the best education possible. It is truly an honor to have her as a teacher at Royall Elementary School.”
MORE: SC 'Where the Revolutionary War Was Won' license plate explained
The South Carolina Teacher of the Year (TOY) is a program of the South Carolina Department of Education (SCDE) coordinated by the Office of Educator Services.
The TOY program annually identifies, recognizes, and celebrates exceptional teachers and their effective work in and outside the classroom.
The teacher selected as South Carolina’s Teacher of the Year serves for one school year as a roving ambassador promoting the teaching profession and as the state spokesperson for over 60,000 educators.
South Carolina school districts nominate teachers for consideration as state Teacher of the Year.
The SCDE established the South Carolina Education Foundation as a 501c3 nonprofit arm of the agency in order to facilitate private support for the annual Teacher of the Year Gala and other student and teacher recognition programs.
Florence One Schools Superintendent Dr. Richard O’Malley said Johnson is an excellent teacher who takes pride in her career.
She was Florence One Schools’ Teacher of the Year in 2025.
District administrators called Johnson a “shining example of a teacher who gives her all to her students every day.”
Johnson’s principal and fellow teachers at the school believe she’ll bring home the top prize because educating exceptional children is her pride and joy.
Schools, offices in the Carolinas make changes ahead of potential severe storms
WMBF News Staffhttps://www.wmbfnews.com/2026/03/15/schools-carolinas-make-changes-ahead-potential-severe-storms/
MYRTLE BEACH, SC (WMBF) - Upcoming weather conditions have led to operational changes for several schools and offices.The changes come based on potential severe storms, including strong winds, and potential tornado activity across North and South Carolina.SCHOOLSFlorence-Darlington Technical CollegeThe technical college will be closing early at 12 p.m. Monday.Horry County SchoolsThe district says all schools will dismiss 2 1/2 hours early on Monday and that all after-school...
MYRTLE BEACH, SC (WMBF) - Upcoming weather conditions have led to operational changes for several schools and offices.
The changes come based on potential severe storms, including strong winds, and potential tornado activity across North and South Carolina.
SCHOOLS
Florence-Darlington Technical College
The technical college will be closing early at 12 p.m. Monday.
Horry County Schools
The district says all schools will dismiss 2 1/2 hours early on Monday and that all after-school activities, including Kid-Care and athletic activities, are cancelled for tomorrow.
Horry-Georgetown Technical College
HGTC will close at noon on Monday.
Employees are encouraged to plan accordingly and, where possible, continue working remotely in coordination with their supervisors.
The College is currently observing Spring Break for most academic programs; however, College offices remain open, and some Workforce Development courses and training activities are still taking place.
The Public Schools of Robeson County
On Monday, schools and facilities will be closed.
All after-school activities remain canceled, including Driver’s Education Classes.
Georgetown County School District
On Monday, all schools and offices will be closed.
All after-school activities, including athletic practices, games, meetings, and other events, are cancelled.
Dillon School District Four
Monday will be an eLearning Day.
Dillon District Three
School and all after-school activities will be closed on Monday.
Florence 1 Schools
Florence 1 Schools will operate on an e-learning day Monday.
Students will log into Google Classroom for instruction with their teachers, and attendance will be taken.
All athletics and after school activities are cancelled
Florence County School District 2
The district will operate on an e-learning day Monday.
Students are encouraged to contact their teachers via email or Google Classroom for instructional support.
Staff should work from home unless otherwise.
Florence School District 3
All after-school activities are canceled for Monday, except for J. C. Lynch Elementary and Scranton Elementary after-school programs.
There are no changes to FSD3’s school day or operational schedules.
Florence School District Five
On Monday, all Florence School District Five schools will be closed to students and staff.
After-school activities are canceled.
Marion County School District
The Marion County School District will be closed Monday, and a make-up day will be announced later.
Darlington County School District
The Darlington County School District will be closed Monday.
Atlantic Collegiate Academy
Atlantic Collegiate Academy is having an e-learning day Monday. Assignments for students will be posted by 8 a.m. and must be completed by 4 p.m. for attendance.
OFFICES
Marlboro County
Marlboro County offices will be closed Monday, the county says it will monitor the conditions and provide updates.
Marlboro County Sheriff’s Office
The Marlboro County Sheriff’s Office administration office will be closed to the public Monday.
Deputies will remain on their normal patrol schedules.
City of Darlington
The city of Darlington’s Administrative Offices will be closed Monday and reopen Tuesday at 8:30 a.m.
Darlington County
Darlington County general government services will be closed Monday, which includes services at the courthouse, government building, landfill, recycling/convenience stations, libraries, parks and recreation activities and museum.
All public safety and public works departments will have normal operations.
Stay with WMBF News for updates.
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Florence residents point to sewage flowing into Jeffries Creek behind homes
Alexis Cooperhttps://wpde.com/news/local/florence-residents-point-to-sewage-flowing-into-jeffries-creek-behind-homes
FLORENCE, S.C. (WPDE) — Residents in Florence said a strong, foul odor that has lingered for months in parts of the city’s west end may finally have an explanation.Images and videos circulating online appear to show sewage spilling into Jeffries Creek, raising concerns among neighbors who said they’ve seen raw sewage flowing through the waterway behind their homes.People living near the creek said the overflow includes fecal matter and toilet paper, which they believe may be coming from the city’s sewer ...
FLORENCE, S.C. (WPDE) — Residents in Florence said a strong, foul odor that has lingered for months in parts of the city’s west end may finally have an explanation.
Images and videos circulating online appear to show sewage spilling into Jeffries Creek, raising concerns among neighbors who said they’ve seen raw sewage flowing through the waterway behind their homes.
People living near the creek said the overflow includes fecal matter and toilet paper, which they believe may be coming from the city’s sewer system.
Many suspect the issue could be the source of the unpleasant smell that has affected the area for months.
Photos and videos shared on social media over the weekend show what appears to be sewage flowing from manholes into the creek.
Florence resident, Andy Evans, said the odor has become hard to ignore, especially along one of the city’s busiest corridors.
“It’s an embarrassment, David McLeod Boulevard is a major thoroughfare coming into Florence, and when you reach Golden Corral between Kimbrell’s furniture, the stench is so bad it almost makes you want to regurgitate," Evans said.
According to reports from the South Carolina Department of Environmental Services (SCDES), Jeffries Creek has experienced more than a dozen water overflows since 2023.
The most recent incident was documented less than two weeks ago. A report from the state agency indicates approximately 100,000 gallons of water were released into Jeffries Creek from a manhole, though the discharge description was listed as unknown.
Officials noted that about half an inch of rainfall, along with inflow and infiltration into the sewer system, may have contributed to the overflow.
SCDES said the city is monitoring the site, has applied lime to the affected area, and has begun water sampling.
Jeffries Creek is also protected under Florence’s Unified Development Ordinance as part of a “non-development overlay district,” which is intended to protect water quality and preserve wildlife habitats.
Evans says the continued overflows are concerning, especially in an area meant to be environmentally protected.
“It’s simple,” Evans said. “I simply want them to stop releasing raw sewage into the Jeffries Creek wetland area.”
ABC 15 reached out to SCDES and Florence city officials, asking about the timeline and potential solutions for addressing residents’ complaints about sewage overflow into the creek.
Florence City Manager Scotty Davis responded, saying he plans to provide an update to the city council during their Monday meeting.
This is not the first sewage overflow reported in the area in recent months.
In October of last year, the city said about 5,000 gallons of sewage overflowed into Jeffries Creek following heavy rainfall.
Officials at the time said the incident was addressed with water testing, vacuum truck cleanup, and disinfection of the affected area.
ABC 15 will continue to follow the latest reports and provide updates as more information becomes available.
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